Cleveland Hopkins International Airport shares tips ahead of holiday travel: What you need to know

CLEVELAND — With Christmas approaching, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) is offering important tips for traveling during the busy holiday season. 

According to Cleveland Hopkins Airport, 550,000 passengers are expected between Dec. 18 and Jan. 6, 2025, marking a 4% increase from the same period last year. 

The airport says the busiest days come in the weekend after Christmas — particularly Sunday, Dec. 28, followed by Dec. 26 and 27.

To avoid delays, CLE encourages passengers to arrive at least two hours before their flight. Peak activity times include:

• Early Morning: 5-7 a.m.
• Midday: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Late Afternoon: 4-6 p.m.

Travelers can find information, including the following, at www.clevelandairport.com.

• Status of your flight
• Airline contact information
• Status of airport parking
• Status of the TSA Checkpoint wait times

In addition, if you plan on parking at Cleveland Hopkins, the daily rates are as follows: 

• CLE Curbside Valet, $37 per day
• The Smart Parking Garage, $25 per day
•  The Red Lot, $23 per day
• The Blue Lot, $23 per day
• The Orange Lot, $20 per day
• The Brown Lot, $17 per day

Passengers can reserve spots in the Smart Parking Garage up to 24 hours in advance at clevelandairport.com/parking-transportation.

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority offers service between Hopkins and any Red Line stop. Trains depart from CLE every 15 minutes.

The airport offers the following hospitality programs: 

• The Hopkins Hangout Pass is designed for non-ticketed guests to access the secure side of the airport to accompany a departing loved one or greet them upon arrival at their gate.
• Hopkins Hounds Therapy Dog program is designed to support the emotional well-being of travelers and airport staff through calming interactions with certified therapy dogs.
• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program is part of a global initiative for individuals with non-visible disabilities to discreetly signal they may need additional support and understanding while traveling through the airport.
• Airport Ambassadors are volunteers who provide assistance to travelers and their families navigating the airport.
• Hopkins Flight School launched earlier this month is an opportunity for individuals with anxiety, special needs or just wanting to see what all the process of flying entails. Due to the success of our first event, we are planning on making this a bi-annual event.